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Planning commission hears broadband, Progress Park and cannery updates; power supply discussed
Summary
County staff briefed the commission on broadband work on several rural roads, Progress Park activity and tennis‑court bid options at Ager Park. Commissioners also discussed local power transmission capacity, small reactor interest regionally and a possible governor's office grant for a local cannery.
Deputy County Administrator Matt Hankins reported that broadband crews are working on Swecker Town Road, Crawford Road, Major Grahams Road and Little Reed Island Road, and that staff will meet residents on Bertha Farms Road on Jan. 13 to discuss right‑of‑ways associated with the rollout. "My recommendation is to let staff do the initial review and then bring it to you for your review and input," Hankins said about the upcoming comprehensive plan review.
County Engineer Johnny Kincer updated commissioners on Progress Park and the Field at Exit 84 (Larry Ball property), noted a DEQ complaint related to Bottomley, and said the county will advertise bids for the Ager Park tennis courts with two options: refurbish the surface or remove and rebuild the courts.
Commissioners asked about a local cannery project. Hankins said the governor's office may announce some funding before the inauguration but characterized the amount as insufficient for major construction and likely useful only for design or planning work. "It is not enough funding to do a major project," he said.
Vice Chair David Midkiff and other members discussed county power infrastructure. Midkiff noted two high‑capacity transmission lines running through the county and said the area is "power rich." Commissioner Rodney Dunford mentioned regional interest in small modular nuclear systems; Hankins cited statewide interest fostered by Gov. Glenn Youngkin and said sites with ample water have been considered in the region but he stopped short of predicting a local project. "I did not say that nuclear power in Wythe County was a possibility," Hankins said, adding that the region’s natural resources make it a candidate for future energy projects.
Commissioner Gary (Rusty) Beamer suggested a ballot referendum on zoning in November; Hankins advised against a referendum, saying many voters lack the technical background to judge zoning tradeoffs and recommending direct community outreach instead. The board also discussed proposed changes to the Bristol casino tax distribution; staff told commissioners Bristol is seeking a larger share under a proposed formula (reported as 27.6%) and that the Board of Supervisors directed staff to oppose the change.
